Now law: MVC to educate drivers on rights and responsibilities during traffic stops

TRENTON, N.J. – Drivers will soon have a better understanding of their rights and
responsibilities during traffic stops — the most common law enforcement interaction
for Americans.

Under legislation (A3871) signed by Gov. Phil Murphy today, the Motor Vehicle
Commission must produce a video on drivers’ rights and responsibilities during police
traffic stops and incorporate it into their education and testing process.

“As a mom and an advocate for education, I was excited to embrace this bill because
it offers an important learning opportunity for new drivers. Understanding your rights
when stopped for a traffic violation is just as important as reading and interpreting road
signs,” said Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, a prime sponsor of the bill. “It equips drivers
with the knowledge to act responsibly and ultimately encourages more positive police
encounters. It also creates a safer environment for law enforcement.”

Drivers are granted certain rights under state and federal law, including the right to be
free from unreasonable or illegal searches by law enforcement, and the right to remain
silent and not answer questions by the police.

“We want to establish a foundation for safer, less stressful police interactions and in
order to do that, we must educate people on what actions are permissible under the
law,” said Dunn (R-Morris). “Educating new drivers is an issue that should be
championed by both sides of the aisle and I am glad I will get to see this law
implemented.”

The law will take effect in seven months. After this time, soon-to-be drivers will be
required to watch the video before taking the written examination for a validated
permit.